The Réseau des rivières sauvages label distinguishes rivers whose natural functioning has remained intact or has been restored. Beyond water quality, it takes into account biodiversity, hydromorphology, landscapes, and the commitment of local stakeholders. "To label a river, there must be local will and interest for it to happen", emphasizes Laurent Dégrave.
The network also supports territories through the Graines de rivière sauvage program, which raises awareness among younger generations through artistic projects and field outings. The goal is to recreate a connection with these natural environments. "We protect well what we know well", he explains.
Preserving these rivers indeed helps maintain the numerous ecosystem services of this particular environment. They cool the areas, limit floods, store water, and provide better quality water. "If we preserve a river, meaning we are proactive rather than reactive, we can also anticipate the effects of climate change in these places".
"The goal today is to really try to reconnect with this environment", concludes Laurent Dégrave.
